Today we’d like to introduce you to Mari Ogihara.
Mari, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
My passion for art began with my mother taking me to see museums, antiques and galleries igniting inspiration for a young artist. Growing up in the eighties in rural Michigan, it was always a desire to see, learn and experience art from different cultures.
I received a BFA in 2003 from University of Michigan and an MFA in 2006 from Tyler School of Art/Temple University. In between the two degrees I spent a semester studying ceramics in my native country of Japan at Kyoto Seika University. The last credits towards my graduate degree was spent in India. Both Japan and India’s religious figurative sculptures have had a profound influence on my art making. After completing my studies, I was awarded a one-year residency at the Clay Art Center in New York. I have now been living and working as an artist in the Tri State area for twelve years.
I instruct ceramic courses at Montclair State University and Manhattanville College. During the summers I attend various artist residencies both domestic and international. Some places include La Ceiba Grafica (Mexico), Institute Sacatar (Brasil), Shigaraki Togei No Mori (Japan), AIR Vallauris (France).
Right now I am in India for five weeks in Himachal north of New Delhi. I have been invited to teach a one-week workshop at the Shilaroo Project. Following four weeks will be spent producing ceramic sculptures for a group exhibition scheduled in Delhi for Jan 2019. Shilaroo Project is an amazing place for pottery, yoga and farming.
http://theshilarooproject.com/
Can you give our readers some background on your art?
I have two main bodies of work in clay sculpture that examines the contradictions of womanhood. Clay is my medium for its adaptability to become anything and for its surface quality resembling skin. Moreover, I enjoy the physicality and directness the material requires.
The first body of work is figurative female forms embodying sensuality and serenity. There is duality in their countenance as their posture is strenuous yet their faces reveal peace even joy. The second body of work is the mannequin series in which I construct plaster molds out of fashion displays. Multiple renditions are made using the same mold which allows me to envision variety within repetition. Most recently I am focusing on the pelvic area creating “Underthings” that appear both as beautifully lattice underwear and as a protective chastity belt. My intention with the work is to intertwine serenity and sensuality. The work shows strength & control while also feeling pleasure and vulnerability. They exhibit the restraint, weightlessness and peaceful characteristics of Japanese Buddhist icons.
The sensuality inherent in my sculpture is derived from Indian stone and bronze figures and the lyrical rhythm in their curvy bodies. I love Indian aesthetic with expressive gestures and playfulness as exemplified in Hindu temples such as Khajuraho. I blend the two cultures to create a style that is uniquely my own.
Any advice for aspiring or new artists?
Professor Sadashi Inuzuka whom I greatly admire told me not to worry. He said if I stick art and continue for at least ten years after graduation….it will lead to something no matter what! I took my mentor’s words to heart because clay is all I know and have done so far. It’s my lifework and I feel privileged to be able to keep learning more about the medium.
My advice is to apply or contact places to show your work everywhere whether it’s at a local college gallery or a commercial venue. Who knows what doors will open and opportunities will arise in unexpected ways. Also, I try to diversify and exhibit in different cities and settings each time.
Lately I have received opportunities through calls for entry that I was initially rejected from. The juror liked my work and thought of me for later curatorial projects. I am definitely not at the point in my career where I can rely solely on invitational shows. I try to keep contacting and applying for shows and also learn about venues by attending other artist’s exhibits.
I wish to have done more internships as an undergraduate during summers off. My time could have been spent more productively had I known better. Now I teach my college students about internships that pertain to their interests.
What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
You can check out my website which I update myself at www.mariogihara.com
The next exhibition will be in the Hudson Valley region of New York. Exhibition dates are Aug 4, 2018 to Dec 31, 2018. Opening reception Aug 4th from 6-8pm at John Goudreault Custom Furniture Fine Art
34 Main Street
Millerton, NY 12546
845-705-5288
www.johngoudreault.com
TBD…. The work that is being made here in India will be in an exhibition in New Delhi for Jan 2019. Please check back on my website for details this fall.
Contact Info:
- Website: Www.mariogihara.com
- Email: ogiharamari@gmail.com
Image Credit:
The two professional shots of the female figurative sculptures should be credited to Mr. Howard Goodman.
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